Scientists are closely monitoring the global outbreak of avian influenza, also known as bird flu, amid concerns that the virus could evolve into a more serious threat to humans. With 55 human cases reported in the US and outbreaks impacting bird populations worldwide, experts are paying close attention to any developments in the virus.
The recent case of a teenager in Canada who contracted H5N1, the first human case in the country, raised alarm among health authorities. The teenager remains in critical condition, and the virus showed certain mutations in the viral sequence that are rare in H5 viruses. Experts are particularly concerned about the virus finding ways to better infect individuals.
The World Organisation for Animal Health reported 88 outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza in October 2024, with 1.7 million birds or poultry dying or being culled. The virus has been undergoing significant genetic diversification and spreading geographically. In the US, there is an ongoing outbreak among dairy cattle, with 675 herds infected in 15 states.
While the risk to the general population remains low according to the CDC and ECDC, experts are monitoring the virus closely for any signs of evolution that could pose a greater threat to humans. It is essential to prevent rapid spread in cattle and bird populations to reduce the risk of transmission to humans. The situation is evolving rapidly, and continuous monitoring is crucial to prevent the virus from becoming a pandemic.
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